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Secondary hyperparathyroidism caused by oral contraceptives
Archives of Internal Medicine
|January 1, 1982
Summary
Oral contraceptives containing norethindrone and mestranol may cause secondary hyperparathyroidism by affecting calcium and vitamin D metabolism. This can lead to hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and potential neurotoxic effects from elevated parathyroid hormone.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Oral contraceptives (OCs) are widely used for birth control.
- Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a condition characterized by overactive parathyroid glands.
Observation:
- A patient developed secondary hyperparathyroidism on two occasions while using an oral contraceptive containing norethindrone and mestranol.
- This suggests a potential link between OC use and the development of hyperparathyroidism.
Findings:
- Estrogenic components of OCs may inhibit the calcium-mobilizing effects of parathyroid hormone (PTH) or vitamin D.
- This hormonal interaction can disrupt calcium homeostasis.
Implications:
- OC therapy may lead to milk hypocalcemia, moderate hypophosphatemia, and neurotoxic effects due to excessive PTH.
- Consider OC use in patients with unexplained parathyroid hyperplasia or tertiary hyperparathyroidism.